Staff Writer
From 1 December, Namibian youth can apply directly to Development Finance Institutions (DFIs) to access the National Youth Development Fund (NYDF), as the government pushes to distribute funds nationwide.
Those without Business Intellectual Property Authority (BIPA) registration can also apply, provided they complete registration upon approval.
A Ministry of Finance statement said, “The remaining applications are under review by the respective Direct Financial Institutions (DFIs) and results will be announced monthly. Feedback will be communicated to all applicants, and consolidated results shared with the Offices of the Regional Governors.”
Participating DFIs include the Development Bank of Namibia (DBN), Agricultural Bank of Namibia (AgriBank), and the Environmental Investment Fund of Namibia (EIF). This year, the government allocated N$257 million to support youth lending, market access initiatives, business development services, and the Fund’s endowment capital.
During the pilot phase launched in September by Prime Minister Elijah Ngurare in Omaheke region, 11,475 applications were received, and 42 projects valued at N$14.78 million were approved across all 14 regions. The DFIs are now finalising loan agreements for these projects.
The NYDF plays a key role in advancing national development objectives outlined in the Sixth National Development Plan (NDP 6), the National Policy on the Informal Economy, Startups and Entrepreneurship, and Vision 2030.
“Incomplete or unsuccessful applicants may participate in targeted training, mentorship, and coaching programmes to enhance their future readiness,” the statement added.
REVISED ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA
The Ministry has expanded the NYDF age eligibility to include Namibians aged 18 to 45. Applications without BIPA registration are accepted, but successful applicants must complete registration upon approval.
The Ministry emphasized robust oversight: “A strong Monitoring and Evaluation framework ensures transparency, accountability, and measurable impact. The government and its partners maintain zero tolerance for misuse, abuse, or corruption. All beneficiaries and implementing agencies must uphold the highest standards of integrity.”
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